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Exercise · Forearms

Reverse Wrist Curl guide

The Reverse Wrist Curl is a beginner-level isolation barbell exercise that primarily targets the Forearm Extensors. Set up with a braced, stable base, move through a full range of motion under control, and progressively add weight or reps over time to keep getting stronger.

TargetForearm Extensors
SecondaryForearms
EquipmentBarbell
MechanicsIsolation
LevelBeginner

What muscles does the reverse wrist curl work?

The Reverse Wrist Curl primarily trains the Forearm Extensors, with the forearms as the target group. Train it as part of a balanced forearms routine.

How do you do the reverse wrist curl?

To do the Reverse Wrist Curl: set up at the barbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight; take a grip or stance that lets your forearms drive the movement through its full range of motion; lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the forearm extensors; avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.

  1. Set up at the barbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight.
  2. Take a grip or stance that lets your forearms drive the movement through its full range of motion.
  3. Lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the forearm extensors.
  4. Avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.

What are the most common reverse wrist curl mistakes?

  • Using momentum or bouncing instead of controlled tension.
  • Cutting the range of motion short to move more weight.
  • Adding load before the current weight is clean for every rep.

Reverse Wrist Curl alternatives

Reverse Wrist Curl FAQ.

What muscles does the Reverse Wrist Curl work?

The Reverse Wrist Curl primarily targets the Forearm Extensors, training the Forearms as the main muscle group.

Is the Reverse Wrist Curl a compound or isolation exercise?

The Reverse Wrist Curl is an isolation exercise — it focuses on one muscle, which is useful for targeting and bringing up weak points.

What equipment do I need for the Reverse Wrist Curl?

You need a barbell. Difficulty is rated beginner.

What are good alternatives to the Reverse Wrist Curl?

Good forearms alternatives include Farmer's Walk, Reverse Curl, Wrist Curl.

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